If you’re a whiskey lover on a budget, you might be tempted to try some of the cheaper whiskey brands on the market. However, not all cheap whiskey is created equal. In fact, some of the worst cheap whiskey brands can leave you with a bad taste in your mouth, both figuratively and literally.
To help you avoid the disappointment of a bad bottle of whiskey, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 worst cheap whiskey brands you need to avoid. From bourbons to whiskeys, these brands have earned a reputation for their poor quality and unpleasant taste. Keep reading to find out which brands to steer clear of when you’re shopping for a budget-friendly bottle of whiskey.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Basics
When it comes to whiskey, there are a few basics you should know to help you navigate the world of cheap whiskey. Understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions about which brands to avoid and which ones to try.
Whiskey Types
Whiskey is a broad category that includes several types, including bourbon, rye, and scotch. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn and aged in oak barrels, while rye whiskey is made from at least 51% rye and aged in oak barrels. Scotch is made from malted barley and aged in oak barrels for at least three years in Scotland.
Fermentation and Distillation
Fermentation is the process of converting sugar into ethanol, and it is a crucial step in whiskey production. Yeast is added to the mash, which is a mixture of grains and water, to start the fermentation process. After fermentation, the mash is distilled to separate the alcohol from the water and other impurities.
Aging and Finishing
After distillation, whiskey is aged in oak barrels to impart flavor and color. The type of oak used can have a significant impact on the final product. Some brands also finish their whiskey in other casks, such as sherry or port, to add additional flavor notes.
Single Malts and Blends
Single malt whiskey is made from 100% malted barley and comes from a single distillery. Blended whiskey, on the other hand, is a combination of different whiskeys from different distilleries. Single malt scotch is a type of single malt whiskey that is made in Scotland.
The Worst Cheap Whiskey Brands
If you’re on a budget, it can be tempting to grab a cheap bottle of whiskey off the shelf. However, not all budget whiskeys are created equal. Some are downright undrinkable. Here are the 10 worst cheap whiskey brands you need to avoid.
Four Roses
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Four Roses is a brand of Kentucky bourbon that has been around since the 1800s. Unfortunately, their cheap offerings are not up to par. The taste is thin, with a harsh alcohol burn and a lack of complexity.
Heaven Hill
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Heaven Hill is a Kentucky distillery that produces a variety of whiskeys, including Evan Williams and Elijah Craig. However, their cheap offerings are not worth your money. The taste is thin and harsh, with a strong alcohol burn and a lack of complexity.
Canadian Mist
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Canadian Mist is a Canadian whiskey that is popular in the United States. However, it is not a good choice for a budget whiskey. The taste is thin and watery, with a lack of flavor and a harsh alcohol burn.
Town Branch
photo credit: lexingtonbrewingco.com
Town Branch is a Kentucky distillery that produces a variety of whiskeys, including bourbon and rye. Unfortunately, their cheap offerings are not worth your money. The taste is thin and harsh, with a lack of complexity and a strong alcohol burn.
Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand
photo credit: www.buffalotracedistillery.com
Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand is a Kentucky bourbon that is popular among budget-conscious whiskey drinkers. However, it is not a good choice. The taste is thin and harsh, with a lack of complexity and a strong alcohol burn.
David Nicholson 1843
photo credit: davidnicholsonbourbon.com
David Nicholson 1843 is a Kentucky bourbon that has been around since the 1800s. Unfortunately, their cheap offerings are not worth your money. The taste is thin and harsh, with a lack of complexity and a strong alcohol burn.
Kentucky Tavern
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Kentucky Tavern is a Kentucky bourbon that is popular among budget-conscious whiskey drinkers. However, it is not a good choice. The taste is thin and harsh, with a lack of complexity and a strong alcohol burn.
Maker’s Mark
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Maker’s Mark is a popular Kentucky bourbon brand that is known for its distinctive red wax seal. While their higher-end offerings are well-respected, their standard Maker’s Mark is not worth your money. The taste is thin and harsh, with a lack of complexity and a strong alcohol burn.
Evan Williams White Label
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Evan Williams is a popular Kentucky bourbon brand that produces a variety of high-quality whiskeys. However, their cheap white label offering is not up to par. The taste is thin and harsh, with a lack of complexity and a strong alcohol burn.
Old Grand-Dad
photo credit: www.beamdistilling.com
Old Grand-Dad is a Kentucky bourbon brand that has been around since the 1800s. Unfortunately, their cheap offerings are not worth your money. The taste is thin and harsh, with a lack of complexity and a strong alcohol burn.
Why These Whiskeys Are Considered Bad
When it comes to whiskey, you want to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. Unfortunately, not all cheap whiskeys are created equal. Some brands may be tempting due to their low price point, but they often sacrifice quality for affordability. Here are some reasons why these whiskeys are considered bad:
Age Matters
One of the biggest factors in the quality of whiskey is its age. Aging allows for the flavors to develop and become more complex. However, many cheap whiskeys are aged for a shorter period or not at all. This results in a harsher taste and a lack of depth in flavor.
Cheap Bourbon
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. While there are many high-quality bourbons on the market, some cheaper brands cut corners by using lower quality ingredients and aging processes. This can result in a bourbon that is overly sweet, harsh, or lacks complexity.
Scotch Whisky
Scotch whisky is a popular type of whiskey that is made in Scotland. It is known for its smoky and peaty flavor profile. However, some cheap scotch whiskies may use artificial flavorings or coloring to mimic the taste of higher quality scotch. This can result in a whiskey that tastes artificial and lacks the depth of flavor that is characteristic of scotch whisky.
Aging and Quality
Aging is a crucial part of the whiskey-making process. However, some cheap whiskeys may use smaller barrels or other shortcuts to speed up the aging process. This can result in a whiskey that lacks the smoothness and complexity that comes with proper aging.
Cheap Alcohol
Finally, many cheap whiskeys are made with cheaper grain alcohol or other additives to cut costs. This can result in a harsh and unpleasant taste that is not representative of a quality whiskey.
A Final Word for Whiskey Enthusiasts
If you are a whiskey enthusiast, you know that quality is everything when it comes to enjoying a good drink. While there are many great whiskey brands out there, it’s important to be aware of the worst cheap whiskey brands that you should avoid.
When you’re out at a bar or attending a whiskey event, it’s always a good idea to do your research beforehand. Look up the brand and read reviews to ensure that you’re not wasting your money on a subpar product. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender or other whiskey enthusiasts for recommendations either.
As a whiskey enthusiast, you know that the experience of drinking whiskey goes beyond just the taste. It’s about the history, the process, and the culture surrounding the drink. That’s why it’s important to support quality whiskey brands that take pride in their craft and respect the traditions of whiskey-making.
It’s important to be discerning when it comes to choosing which whiskey brands to support. By avoiding the worst cheap whiskey brands and seeking out quality products, you can ensure that you’re getting the best experience possible. Cheers to good whiskey!
